Tamron SP AF 200-500mm F/5-6.3 Di LD (IF)

Canon EF

Review

The Tamron SP AF 200-500mm F/5-6.3 Di LD (IF) lens for Canon EF mounts is a versatile super-telephoto zoom lens that caters to wildlife photographers, sports enthusiasts, and anyone who requires distance shooting capabilities without breaking the bank. With its extended focal range and reasonably fast aperture, this lens provides ample opportunities for capturing distant subjects in sharp detail.

The lens design incorporates LD (Low Dispersion) glass elements, which help combat chromatic aberrations, resulting in more accurate color reproduction and improved sharpness across the frame. The internal focus (IF) system allows for faster focusing speeds, making it suitable for tracking moving subjects. The lens features a solid build quality that can take on the rigors of outdoor photography, with a rubberized grip for comfortable handling.

One of the more notable features is the zoom range, which effectively covers the 200mm to 500mm spectrum, allowing for a significant range of composition options without needing to switch lenses. The 7-blade diaphragm contributes to pleasing bokeh, an essential factor for isolating subjects against a creamy background. Additionally, the lens is compatible with Tamron’s 1.4x and 2.0x teleconverters, which can further extend its reach for avid photographers.

However, there are some drawbacks to this lens that are worth mentioning. The maximum aperture of F/5-6.3 is relatively slow, especially at the far end, which can be limiting in low-light situations. This may result in slower shutter speeds or increased ISO noise. Additionally, while the lens is relatively lightweight for its class, it can still feel front-heavy when mounted on lighter DSLR bodies, making handheld shooting a bit cumbersome after extended use.

Another point to consider is that, due to its super-telephoto zoom range and the design, the autofocus can be slower than some of the more expensive alternatives on the market. This can particularly affect performance when attempting to capture action sequences or fast-moving wildlife. Furthermore, while the lens hood is included, it can become quite cumbersome, and users may prefer a more compact solution.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Extensive zoom range from 200mm to 500mm provides versatility for various photography genres.
• Low Dispersion glass elements reduce chromatic aberrations, enhancing image quality.
• Internal focusing (IF) allows for quick focus response.
• Pleasant bokeh thanks to the 7-blade diaphragm.
• Compatibility with Tamron teleconverters extends reach further.

Cons

• Max aperture of F/5-6.3 can be limiting in low-light situations.
• Front-heavy design may cause discomfort during handheld shooting.
• Slower autofocus compared to higher-end super-telephoto lenses.
• Bulky lens hood may be cumbersome.

Verdict

In conclusion, the Tamron SP AF 200-500mm F/5-6.3 Di LD (IF) lens for Canon EF mounts offers an excellent balance of performance and affordability for those in need of a super-telephoto solution. While it may not match the speed and discretion of more expensive models, it remains a solid choice for amateur photographers or those looking to explore long-distance shooting without extensive investment. Overall, this lens proves to be a reliable partner for capturing captivating wildlife and sports shots, with some compromises that are acceptable given its price point.